Therapeutic Neuromodulation

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Therapeutic Neuromodulation Treatment for Pain Questions and Answers

Neuromodulation is a physiological process by which a given neuron uses a chemical to regulate a select group of neurons. This process has several therapeutic practices, such as treating diseases or specific symptoms, from headaches to hyperhidrosis. Therapeutic neuromodulation is an incredibly promising therapy in the treatment of pain, and can reduce painful symptoms significantly. Botox is one of the most common neuromodulators, and is often used clinically to treat muscle spasms and overactive sweat glands.

What is therapeutic neuromodulation?

Neurons are connected both electrically and electrochemically and function in the brain as networks.  Brain function can be altered in disease states due to faulty conduction, disturbed neural function, or faulty function of brain networks.

The therapeutic alteration or modification of brain activity using magnetic or electrical energy is called neuromodulation, which also encompasses chemical therapies, such as neurotoxins like Botox.

How does neuromodulation reduce pain?

Botulinum toxin for treating chronic pain conditions is most commonly used where the pain is largely caused by myofascial pain, muscle spasms, hyperactive nerves, or damaged nerves. Once injected in a precise location, the botulinum toxin can target and shut down the nerves responsible for the pain, typically for a few months at a time. These nerves generally heal at a varied pace, and once they do, if the pain still persists, the patient may require additional injections.

Neuromodulation using botulinum toxin is not curative. There are no cures for many causes of chronic pain, although botulinum toxin can be an effective part of a long-term treatment strategy for restoring quality of life.

How long does it take for a neuromodulator to work?

The effects of neuromodulators such as the botulinum toxin are typically seen after four to five days, with the full effects taking place after about a week to ten days. These times vary from one patient to the next, depending on factors such as genetics, metabolism, age, and severity of symptoms.

What pain conditions can therapeutic neuromodulation treat?

Botulinum toxin is FDA-approved to treat the following medical conditions:

  • Chronic/transformed migraine headaches
  • Upper limb spasticity (tense or overactive arms)
  • Cervical dystonia (severe neck twitching and spasms)
  • Chronic muscle pain
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Joint pain and osteoarthritis
  • Various maxillofacial pain conditions

They can also be used to treat:

Osteoarthritis Pain

Botulinum toxin injections have been used to reduce knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis and may also be used to treat joint pain. When a low dosage is used, these injections are particularly effective in joint pain cases, leading to short-term but effective pain relief.

Muscle Pain

Neuromodulation is effective in treating chronic pain caused by myofascial trigger points, painful muscle knots in the protective sheath that surround each muscle. This often occurs due to improper/excessive exercise, lack of rest, and overuse. This type of pain is different from a muscle cramp: it is not the entire muscle that is seizing up for a short time, but a small trigger point that aches and pains for a much longer period of time. An injection of the botulinum toxin can help relieve this pain by relaxing the muscle and reducing motion.

Headaches and Facial Pain

Neuromodulators also show great promise in the treatment of maxillofacial pain, or pain around the neck, head, and jaw. Examples include chronic pain caused by temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and masseter overactivity (the jaw muscles).

Beauty Spot Med Spa is proud to offer therapeutic neuromodulation treatments for pain relief. Call today to book an appointment for therapeutic neuromodulation treatment for pain, or visit our clinic conveniently located near you. We serve patients from Bel Air MD, Forest Hill MD, Fairview MD, Fallston MD, Jarrettsville MD, Abingdon MD and Edgewood MD.  We look forward to serving you!